Pradhan launches CBSE curriculum on CT and AI for students from Classes III to VIII

In a transformative step toward future-ready education, Union Education Minister Shri Dharmendra Pradhan today launched the CBSE curriculum on Computational Thinking (CT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) for students from Classes III to VIII, formally integrating AI education into the school system at an early stage.

The launch, held at Vigyan Bhawan, was attended by Minister of State Shri Jayant Chaudhary, senior officials from the Ministry of Education, CBSE, NCERT, Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan, and Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti.

A Transformational Step Towards Future-Ready Learning

Describing the initiative as a "decisive shift towards augmented learning," Shri Pradhan said the curriculum introduces structured AI education at scale at the beginning of the academic session 2026–27.

The curriculum is supported by:

• Structured modules and teacher handbooks

• Comprehensive student assessment frameworks

• Early exposure to emerging technologies and digital tools

"This initiative lays the foundation for nurturing innovation, critical thinking, and design orientation among young learners," the Minister said.

Building AI-Ready Students from an Early Age

The curriculum aims to develop AI-ready learners by strengthening core computational thinking skills such as:

• Logical reasoning

• Problem-solving

• Pattern recognition

• Data interpretation

Students will also gain an understanding of how Artificial Intelligence is used in everyday life, preparing them for future careers in a technology-driven world.

Aligned with NEP 2020 and NCF 2023

The initiative is closely aligned with India's major education reforms:

• National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 — promoting India as a global leader in AI and emerging technologies

• National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023 — providing structured learning goals, competencies, and outcomes

The curriculum follows a phased approach, introducing computational thinking first, followed by deeper AI concepts in higher classes.

Experiential and Activity-Based Learning Approach

Moving away from rote learning, the curriculum adopts a playful and experiential pedagogy:

• Activity-based learning using games, puzzles, and worksheets

• Emphasis on breaking complex problems into smaller tasks

• Use of visual tools like charts and diagrams

• Collaborative learning through group discussions and peer interaction

This approach aims to make learning engaging while developing real-world problem-solving abilities.

Competency-Based Assessment System

Assessment methods have also been redesigned to focus on skills rather than memorization:

• Interactive evaluations, including puzzles and group tasks

• Use of Teacher Observation Journals

• Focus on creative thinking and practical application

The shift reflects a broader move toward continuous and competency-based evaluation.

A National Investment in Human Capability

Speaking at the event, Shri Jayant Chaudhary highlighted that education must prepare students not just for today's world but for future disruptions driven by AI and technology.

He emphasized that students should become:

• Creators, not just users of technology

• Adaptable learners capable of learning, unlearning, and relearning

• Confident individuals who can navigate uncertainty and innovation

"This is not merely an academic reform, but a national investment in human capability," he said.

Strengthening India's Digital Future

With global recognition growing for India's capabilities in technology and computing, the curriculum is expected to:

• Build a strong digital talent pipeline

• Encourage innovation and entrepreneurship

• Prepare students for future jobs and emerging industries

By introducing AI and computational thinking at the foundational stage, India is taking a decisive step toward creating a future-ready, innovation-driven education ecosystem.